Handcrafted British Heritage: Emma Bridgewater's Timeless Pottery

Welcome to Hidden Heritage! Emma Bridgewater, CBE, a renowned designer, businesswoman, and accomplished potter, joins Lady Violet Manners in this episode. Emma entered the pottery business in 1985 and has since become one of the foremost designers of British homeware and one of the UK's most recognisable entrepreneurs.Join us as we explore: Emma's Journey: From her early inspiration to founding one of the largest pottery manufacturers in the UK. British Design and Heritage: How British culture and landscapes have influenced Emma's designs over the years. Manufacturing in the UK: The challenges and opportunities in British manufacturing and Emma's passion for local production. The Future of Emma Bridgewater: Exciting new projects and developments, including collaborations with the next generation. Key Points 00:00:04 - Introduction of Emma Bridgewater and her background in pottery. 00:01:31 - Emma discusses her childhood and early influences. 00:03:12 - The inspiration behind starting her pottery business. 00:05:01 - Emma's first experiences in Stoke-on-Trent and the pottery industry. 00:10:09 - Discussion of the first items produced and early business challenges. 00:15:02 - The history of pottery in Britain and Wedgwood's influence. 00:24:17 - Emma's first destination recommendation: North Norfolk Marshes. 00:27:55 - The influence of British nature and landscapes on Emma's designs. 00:36:50 - Challenges facing British manufacturing and pottery. 00:40:07 - Emma's second destination recommendation: Port Meadow in Oxford. 00:42:29 - New projects and developments at Emma Bridgewater. 00:46:03 - Discussion on sustainability in the pottery industry. 00:51:26 - Emma's favorite tea and toast preferences. 00:54:20 - Emma's third destination recommendation: Offa's Dyke Path. Guest Info Emma Bridgewater, CBE is a British designer and businesswoman who founded the Emma Bridgewater pottery company in 1985. Her company is now one of the largest pottery manufacturers based entirely in the UK, with most products made in the Emma Bridgewater factory in Stoke-on-Trent. About Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com Links and Resources Emma Bridgewater Official Website North Norfolk Coast Port Meadow, Oxford Offa's Dyke Path Stoke-on-Trent Potteries Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices